Debunking Mobile Learning Myths and Hype

Mobile learning or m-learning holds immense promise and provides great benefits for distance learning. But, it is still in its infancy and there is a long way to go before m-learning is embraced completely. Currently, myths and misconceptions of m-learning are running rampant. Most of them are not true.

Here are six common myths, and their busters, that have created roadblocks for greater acceptance of mobile learning solutions in the workplace.

Myth #1: It is simply learning on the phone.

This is the most common misconception about mobile learning solutions. M-learning is not just learning on the phone. It can be accessed by all mobile devices like tablets, laptops, and so on. Some believe that you can access m-learning only when you are on the move, as in while traveling. Though this is one of the greatest advantages of mobile learning, it does not mean that you cannot access the course while you are static.

Myth #2: You cannot learn on a small screen.

You are not planning to create a 200-pager module. Huge, chunky modules are not advisable for any form of learning, let alone m-learning. The idea is to make information available to your employees just at the time they need it, designed in a way that is accessible via mobile devices. Employees are interested in knowing how the required information is presented and how they can access it to accomplish a task. Today, newer phones with larger screens are making lives of learning designers easy.

Myth #3: It is expensive.

In fact, it is the other way around. Mobile learning lowers the cost of hardware. Your employees can use their own devices or you can provide them with devices that cost far less than traditional platforms. If you encourage your employees to use mobile learning as much as possible, then you will end up saving money on travel, space, accommodation, and facilitator. Updating mobile learning is also faster and easier than traditional methods of learning.

Myth #4: It is not secure.

It is true that mobile devices are more likely to be lost or stolen. But, they do have numerous security features like password protection, encryption, and so on. Several apps are available for iOS and Android devices which can safeguard information on the device. The safest option is to keep learning in the cloud. That way, courses will not be stored on the device, but delivered on demand.

Myth #5: It is a distraction.

Learner distraction cannot be blamed on the mode of delivery. It is prevalent on all learning platforms. If you want to keep your audience hooked, then concentrate on making the content interesting and engaging. Managers can set aside specific times for learning or encourage learners to make more effective use of their downtime.

Myth #6: It cannot be used by learners with disabilities.

Most organizations focus on making their course accessible. Apple iOS have in-built accessibility features like captioning and voiceovers. Mobile learning software provides support for screen readers and has semantic HTML5 for text alternatives. Embracing mobile learning solutions is important for organizations that want to be considered inclusive.

At Designing Digitally, Inc. our UI professionals ensure that the interface is optimal for the devices that will be used for the course. We also make sure that the content flows seamlessly and learners can get the best benefit out of the course.

Get in touch to know how our mobile learning services can provide you with better impact.